Buffalo Bills: Realistic expectations for Gabriel Davis’ rookie season

These are projections for what Buffalo Bills fans could realistically expect from Gabriel Davis his rookie season.

The Buffalo Bills completed their wide receiver position makeover this offseason by trading for Stefon Diggs and then selecting Gabriel Davis in the fourth round and Isaiah Hodgins in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. The additions of Davis and Hodgins provides some size to the position, as well as players who can be long term answers at the position.

Gabriel Davis played three seasons for the University of Central Florida and steadily improved year over year from 27 receptions, 391 receiving yards, 14.5 yards per reception and four touchdowns in 2017 to 53 receptions, 815 yards, 15.4 yards per reception and seven touchdowns in 2018.

However, it was this past season that he had his breakout year and went on to catch 72 passes for 1,241 receiving yards for a 17.2 yards per reception average and 12 touchdowns.

Realistic Expectations for Gabriel Davis

This is the tricky part for Gabriel Davis because if this was written prior to training camp, these numbers would have been much lower. This is not because he isn’t a good wide receiver or has a bright future, but the Bills have their top three wide receivers set with Diggs, John Brown and Cole Beasley.

In an offense that has primarily been run heavy, there is only so many passing targets available.

However, Gabriel Davis has become a bit of a media darling and it seems he is mentioned almost on a daily basis. It is understandable when he is making plays like this:

Based on these reports and highlights like that one, it would be smart for Brian Daboll and this coaching staff to find ways to get Davis onto the field. He likely still finishes fourth among wide receivers in stats but the rookie from UCF should likely see 3-5 targets every week.

Realistic Expectation: 32 receptions, 448 receiving yards, 4 touchdowns